At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team as a DNA Scientist, optimising molecular biology experiments and supporting product development.
- Company: We're an innovative biotech company in Cambridge, revolutionising DNA synthesis for gene therapy projects.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, private pension, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Be part of a cutting-edge team making a real impact in biotechnology and gene therapy.
- Qualifications: BSc/MSc in Biology/Biochemistry with 1+ year lab experience; expertise in DNA techniques required.
- Other info: Full-time role, Monday to Friday, with a collaborative and dynamic work environment.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 29000 £ per year.
Location: Cambridge
Contract: Full-time and permanent
Sector: Biotechnology
Salary: £26,000 - £35,000 depending on experience and interview performance
Work Hours: 40 hrs a week, Monday to Friday (09:00 – 17:30)
Our client is an innovative biotechnology company based outside of the centre of Cambridge. They have built a platform to synthesise DNA and RNA which provides exciting possibilities for ensuring cheaper, faster and more accurate DNA / gene constructs than traditional plasmid-based methods. They work with external partners to develop gene therapy projects and have some internal projects too. Additionally they have AAV and Lipid-nanoparticle technology platforms in-house. In a key phase of their growth, our client is looking to bring a DNA Scientist to their process development team on a full-time and permanent basis.
The Opportunity
This is an opportunity suitable for a BSc / MSc holder in a Biological discipline, alongside additional laboratory experience (either in industry or academia). As a DNA Scientist, you will be responsible for:
- Supporting the process development and tech transfer functions with synthetic DNA projects.
- Validating and optimising various molecular biology and biochemistry experiments to enable efficient product development and transfer to manufacturing. This may include: DNA handling, PCR, gel electrophoresis, capillary electrophoresis, TFF, AKTA purification (ion exchange, affinity chromatography, size exclusion etc), DNA quantification (nanodrop / Qubit) etc.
- Optimise and improve processes within the DNA team, working alongside other teams including R&D and manufacturing.
- Record scientific data in accordance with company policy and presenting data to internal teams.
- Attending company / team meetings.
Skills and Experience Needed
- BSc / MSc in Biology / Biochemistry and an additional 1+ year of laboratory experience gained in academia or industry (essential, equivalent experience okay)
- Must have proven experience in designing experiments and planning experiment schedules (essential)
- Prior experience in DNA and molecular biology, with experience in some of the following techniques: micropipetting, gel electrophoresis, DNA quantification (Spectrophotometry / Qubit / nanodrop), PCR, cloning, primer design (essential)
- Prior experience in one of more of the following: Tangential flow filtration (TFF), capillary electrophoresis or AKTA systems (SEC, IEX, affinity) (essential)
- Excellent attention to detail. (essential)
- Ability to work effectively in a team and individually (essential)
- Experience working in an industrial biological laboratory (desired)
The Package
As an up-and-coming Cambridge Biotech, our client is able to offer a competitive salary, progression options and benefits package including private pension.
Scientist Biochemistry employer: Taylorollinson
Contact Detail:
Taylorollinson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Scientist Biochemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in DNA synthesis and molecular biology techniques. Being knowledgeable about current trends and technologies, such as AAV and lipid-nanoparticle platforms, can give you an edge during discussions with the hiring team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the biotechnology sector, especially those working in DNA synthesis or related fields. Attend industry conferences or local meetups to make connections that could lead to referrals or insider information about the company.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your hands-on laboratory experience in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of experiments you've designed and conducted, particularly those involving PCR, gel electrophoresis, and other relevant techniques mentioned in the job description.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your teamwork skills by preparing examples of how you've collaborated with others in a lab setting. Highlight any experiences where you contributed to process improvements or worked alongside R&D and manufacturing teams, as this aligns with the role's requirements.
We think you need these skills to ace Scientist Biochemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your BSc/MSc in Biology/Biochemistry and any relevant laboratory experience. Emphasise your skills in DNA handling, PCR, and other techniques mentioned in the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the responsibilities of the DNA Scientist role. Mention your experience with molecular biology techniques and how you can contribute to the process development team.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your application, clearly outline your experience with the essential techniques such as gel electrophoresis, DNA quantification, and AKTA systems. Use specific examples to demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Teamwork Skills: Since the role requires effective teamwork, include examples of past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others in a laboratory setting. This will show your ability to work well within a team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Taylorollinson
✨Know Your Techniques
Make sure you brush up on the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and DNA quantification. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with these methods and how you've applied them in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Skills
Be ready to share examples of how you've designed experiments and tackled challenges in the lab. Highlight your ability to optimise processes and improve efficiency, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Show Team Spirit
Since collaboration is key in this position, think of instances where you've successfully worked in a team. Emphasise your communication skills and how you contribute to a positive team environment.
✨Prepare Questions
Have a few thoughtful questions ready about the company's projects or future directions. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if the company is the right fit for you.